Federal Government Colleges, popularly known as Unity Schools, continue to attract strong interest from parents and pupils across West Africa, with more than 64,000 candidates participating in this year’s National Common Entrance Examination.
The test, conducted on Saturday by the National Examinations Council (NECO), drew candidates from Nigeria, the Benin Republic, and Togo. The number reflects growing confidence in Nigeria’s Unity School system, according to education officials.
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, who observed the examination at selected centres in Abuja, expressed satisfaction with how the process unfolded.
“They started on time, students were orderly, and invigilators were present and active,” she said.
“This turnout shows that parents still value the role of Unity Schools in national cohesion.”
She revealed that of the total candidates, 34,000 were female while 30,000 were male, an encouraging sign for girl-child education in the country.
NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, added that Lagos recorded the highest number of applicants with over 15,000, while Togo had the lowest turnout with just 17 candidates, all Nigerian citizens.
“This is a truly regional exercise that affirms the reach and reputation of our Unity Colleges,” Wushishi noted.
He also confirmed that there were no logistical challenges reported and that the exam materials were delivered promptly. Children with special needs were also accommodated with braille question papers and support staff.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education says the admissions process will be based on merit, state quota, and what it described as “exigency”, a provision mostly for children of federal workers.
“We’re committed to fairness and inclusion. The final list will depend on the released results,” said Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education.
